ABA, NIGERIA — The Abia State Government has intensified its crackdown on illegal revenue collection, resulting in the arrest of a notorious impersonator and the declaration of the Acting Chairman of Ariaria International Market as a wanted man.
Arrest of “Star” and the Task Force Impersonation
On Wednesday, January 7, 2025, security operatives arrested Mr. Benedict Elias, popularly known as “Star,” for allegedly impersonating a state government task force official. Elias is accused of leading violent attacks on authorized government revenue agents and disrupting lawful collection activities within the Ariaria International Market in Aba.
This is not the first time Elias has faced such charges. Earlier in 2025, the Mayor of Aba North LGA, Mr. Timothy Iheke, reportedly arrested him for similar offenses involving the impersonation of state officials.
Allegations Against Acting Chairman Hyacinth Nnabude
Investigations revealed a deeper conspiracy involving the market’s current leadership. Reports suggest that funds seized during these illegal disruptions were diverted to the Acting Chairman of the market, Mr. Hyacinth Ositadinma Nnabude.
Revenue agents alleged that Mr. Nnabude demanded a “settlement” of over ₦17 million from 70 zones within the market. When the agents refused—insisting that all collections belong solely to the Abia State Government—Nnabude allegedly vowed to frustrate their operations, leading to the deployment of thugs like Elias.
Current Status: Mr. Nnabude has reportedly fled Aba. The Abia State Board of Internal Revenue (ABIR) has officially declared him wanted as efforts intensify to recover diverted public funds.
Internal Turmoil and Leadership Crisis in Ariaria
The scandal has reignited tensions within the Ariaria International Market executive council. Many stakeholders are now calling for the immediate reinstatement of the substantive Chairman, Deacon Michael Ogbonnaya Aniorji.
Market leaders have raised concerns over the legality of the current administration, citing several red flags:
- Suspension Allegations: Sources claim Deacon Aniorji’s suspension was a “setup” orchestrated by the former Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Mr. Kingsley Chibueze Nwokocha.
- Procedural Breach: Executive members questioned why the Treasurer was appointed as Acting Chairman, bypassing the Vice Chairman, Secretary, and Chief Security Officer (CSO).
Restoring Order to West Africa’s Commercial Hub
Traders and stakeholders are now calling on the Governor Alex Otti-led administration to conduct a comprehensive forensic investigation into the market’s management. The goal is to restore transparency, accountability, and lawful leadership to one of West Africa’s largest and most vital commercial hubs.
Also Read: Ariaria Remodelling: ASMATA Calls On Traders To Support Govt Fully
